La Technique

Jacques Ellul's work, La Technique, defines "technique" as the totality of methods rationally arrived at and having absolute efficiency in every field of human activity. This means that technique represents a societal state where all endeavors are conducted with an emphasis on maximum efficiency and productivity.1

Ellul's analysis, presented in La Technique (published in English as The Technological Society), warns of the dangers of humanity losing control over technology and the modern world. While technology itself is neutral, the momentum of established technological developments can be difficult to halt. Ellul's perspective is a critical examination of how these efficient methods shape society.12